what comes after

Your browser lacks required capabilities. Please upgrade it or switch to another to continue.

Loading…

<<timed 2s>>............ ........................ <<next>>SYSTEM REBOOTING: <<next>>97%… <<next>>98%… <<next>>99%… <<next>>100%. <<next>>SYSTEM REBOOT: COMPLETE<</timed>> <<timed 17s>><<goto "Intro-helloconnor">><</timed>>

Use the cursor to select your choice. What are you most fond of? [[MUSIC->Very good]] [[HUMANS->Very good]] [[ROBOTS->Very good]] [[DOGS->Very good]]

Very good. Over the course of this game, you will be prompted with many choices, some of them harder than others. Let's see what decisions you will make today. [[>>->Awaken]]

<<timed 3s>><<audio "beep" play>>"Connor!" <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>Auditory, visual receptors initializing. Identified: [[Hank Anderson->Awaken 1]].<</timed>>

<<audio "beach" loop play>><center><<include hank-upset>></center> "Jesus! You scared me half to death. You okay?" [[Everything seems to be in working order... What happened?->Awaken 2]]

<center><<include hank-worried>></center> "Fucking shitstorm, that's what happened! You were damaged in action. Last night, when we were chasing those [[antis->Awaken - antis]] into Cadillac Square. One of 'em was armed. Bullet grazed your [[central processor->Awaken 3]]." <<set $awakenwherearewe to "false">> <<set $awakenamialright to "false">> <<set $awakendidwegetthem to "false">> <<set $awakenhank = 0>>

Since the revolution, there are those who still object to androidkind, perhaps now more vehemently than ever. [[>>->Awaken 2]]

<center><<include hank-glad>></center><<if $awakenhank is 3>> "Anyway. Looks like you're mostly intact, but Fowler's given you some time off regardless. Why don't you make use of it? Read a book or, find a hobby, or something." <<linkreplace ">>" t8n>>"As for me, I've still gotta go to work, so. Take care of Sumo for me while I'm gone, yeah?" [[Got it. See you.->1 - scan]]<</linkreplace>> <<else>> Hank touches his temple, indicating to your LED ring, now missing, in its place what feels like a gash of cracked plastic. <<if $awakendidwegetthem is "false">>[[Did we get them?->Awaken - Did we get them?]]<</if>> <<if $awakenwherearewe is "false">>[[Where are we?->Awaken - Where are we?]]<</if>> <<if $awakenamialright is "false">>[[It feels strange.->Awaken - Am I alright?]]<</if>><<set $Sumo to "false">> <<set $favmusic to "smooth jazz">> <</if>>

<center><<include hank-mad>></center> "Psh. Shut up. My partner nearly dies and the first thing he's worried about is whether or not we catch some third-rate bigots." Hank looks down. The thought of it seems to stir him. "Remember. You're not expendable anymore." [[>>->Awaken 3]] <<set $awakendidwegetthem to "true">> <<set $awakenhank += 1>>

<center><<include hank-neutral>></center> "My place." Your visual feedback is coming back to you. It's grainy, but you can make out the interior of the living room. "Didn't want you spending the night at DPD locked up alone in case you woke up, so I asked if I could keep an eye on you." [[>>->Awaken 3]] <<set $awakenwherearewe to "true">> <<set $awakenhank += 1>>

<center><<include hank-upset>></center> "We had them patch you up and run diagnostics on you at the station. You're stuck with that scratch across your head for now til they can request a new part for it. Sheesh. That's like, your brain in there, isn't it?" [[Don't worry, Lieutenant. My 'brain' is not quite so fragile as a human's. The damage seems minimal, and any errors in my operative ability would be fixable upon reinstallation of the proper components.|Awaken - fine]] <<set $awakenamialright to "true">> <<set $awakenhank += 1>>

<center><<include hank-hm>></center> "Hm? Sorry." [[>>->Awaken 3]]

<<unset $awakendidwegetthem, $awakenwherearewe, $awakenamialright, $awakenhank>><<set $wrotenote, $hankcall, $sumofood to "0">>It is 11:46 AM, November 17th, 2039. You are seated in the LIVING ROOM. <<linkreplace "SCAN" t8n>>Proximal sensors functioning as intended. You scan your surroundings. [[>>|MAP1]]<</linkreplace>>

"Hey," Hank mumbles into your neck. "Where do you like yourself getting touched, usually?" [[I have a highly erogenous zone in my loins, akin to that of humans'.]] [[Would it be strange if I asked you to open up my chest cavity and fondle my thirium pump?]] [[Could you pet my hair, and maybe compliment me, please?]] [[Anywhere you want, Hank.]]

Double-click this passage to edit it.

<<timed 3s t8n>>Hello, Connor. Do you remember how to play? [[YES->Very good]]       [[NO->Intro-no]]<</timed>>

You look out the window. It's snowing. You can hardly see Detroit anymore in the blinding whiteness of it all. [[I'm sorry, Sumo. It's not a good idea to go for a walk right now.->1 - Livingroom]]

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/1uee7uudt73hzlj/kitchen.gif?dl=1" usemap="#kitchen"><map name="kitchen"><area data-passage="1 - table" coords="148,94,209,153" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - counter" coords="84,69,105,218" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - dogfood" coords="176,198,268,221" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - windows" coords="119,30,151,44" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - coffee" coords="220,33,284,59" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP1" coords="290,221,268,103" shape="rect"></map> You are in the <b>KITCHEN</b>.</center>

<center><<include sumo>></center> You stoop down and <<linkreplace "pet Sumo.">>pet Sumo. You keep <<linkreplace "petting.">>petting. You <<linkreplace "pet some more." t8n>>pet some more. You think that the feeling of a dog's fur is maybe your <<linkreplace "favorite feeling in the world.">>favorite feeling in the world. You give him one more pet, for good measure.<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>> [[STOP|1 - Livingroom]]

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/2j9fs87i2llrl3o/bedroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#bedroom"><map name="bedroom"><area data-passage="1 - bed" coords="171,112,232,179" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - mag" coords="150,140,160,152" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - wardrobe" coords="120,75,318,90" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP1" coords="104,83,48,186" shape="rect"></map> You are in the <b>BEDROOM</b>.</center>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/f8lyffzoa4zxmbk/bathroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#bathroom1"><map name="bathroom1"> <area data-passage="1 - laundry" coords="185,80,212,106" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - toilet" coords="152,78,168,105" shape="rect"> <area data-passage="1 - tub" coords="93,79,136,178" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - sink" coords="176,160,221,180" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP1" coords="265,93,284,136" shape="rect"></map>You are in the <b>BATHROOM</b>.</center>

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>><<set $mirror to "1">><center><<include connor-neutral>></center> You look into the mirror. [[...|1 - Mirrorexamine2]]<<default>><center><<include connor-smile>></center> The image looking back at you is pleasant. [[BACK|1 - Bathroom]]<</switch>>

You glance at the unmade bed. It looks inviting. Androids don't really need to nap, as such... but maybe you would like to? [[NAP|1 - nap]] [[NOT YET|1 - Bedroom]]

The newest issue of Century magazine. The cover shows a faded close-up of Markus, his skin partially retracted: <center><b><h1>C E N T U R Y</h1><hr></b></center><p align="right">November 2039</p> <center><b><h2>ONE YEAR AFTER THE REVOLUTION</h2></b></center> <b>The new face of Detroit: Markus Manfred and the bridge between worlds Anti-androidism still on the rise Where in the world is Elijah Kamski?</b> [[>>|1 - Bedroom]]

You lay down on the bed. You lace your hands together. <<timed 2s>><<audio "beach" volume 1 fadeto 0>>............<<next>> ........................<</timed>> <<timed 9s>><<goto "1 - Chloe">><</timed>>

You look through Hank's closet. There is his usual assortment of clothes. The streaky shirt, the hippie shirt. The stripy shirt, the one with the blue trim and orange stripes, is missing. You recall Hank did not wear it out today. [[>>|1 - Bedroom]]

<<run DebugView.disable()>>

<<cacheaudio "beep" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/dfwffei8rn4r86g/beep.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "visager" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/lbv3i4paux8rker/Visager_-_14_-_Home_Departure_Loop.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "beach" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/rchfh746ggrcyrq/Komiku_-_05_-_Beach.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "rain" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/g1fnxpw1do7ssq3/Rain_Background-Mike_Koenig-1681389445.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "resolution" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/1g3jgih9voy2yi8/Komiku_-_69_-_Resolution.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "younglove" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/z5mk503oyb11dcs/BoxCat_Games_-_06_-_Young_Love.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "swimming" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/0icpmw8xa1hbzzg/Komiku_-_39_-_Swimming_with_the_fish.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "treasurefinding" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/zl2imd6f9nev7zf/Komiku_-_40_-_Treasure_finding.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "horizon" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/1dkbjsd3eo4r1g9/Komiku_-_45_-_The_Horizon.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "thebeach" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/b1yp3mtx5qqbjsm/Komiku_-_47_-_The_Beach.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "sunset" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/5hnru3sbwufbps7/Komiku_-_55_-_Sunset_on_the_beach.mp3?dl=1">> <<cacheaudio "lightthatsblinding" "https://www.dropbox.com/s/2p9qqxch9wecc1p/Mutual%20Benefit%20-%20The%20Light%20That%27s%20Blinding.mp3?dl=1">>

<center><<include hank-heh>></center> "Right, right. Must be all that blue blood, and that... polyalloy skull of yours, or whatever. Actually, you look kinda cool. Like a mini-Terminator." [[Please don't call me that.->Awaken - Please don't call me that]]

<center><<include connor-smile>></center> You adjust your hair. You straighten your collar. The image looking back at you is pleasant. <<timed 3s t8n>>[[BACK|1 - Bathroom]]<</timed>>

<center><<include sumo>></center> You pick a chew toy up off the ground and wave it enticingly at Sumo. You throw the toy. Sumo wags his tail minutely faster. [[Good dog.|1 - Livingroom]]

Hank's laptop. You know the password, but would not dream of messing with it. Would you? [[SUMO|1 - laptop2]] [[FUCKINGPASSWORD|1 - laptop2]] [[09061985|1 - laptop2]] [[NO|1 - Kitchen]]

A lockscreen pops up: <b>Nice try, asshole.</b> [[BACK|1 - Kitchen]]

<<unset $hankcall, $sumofood, $mirror>><<timed 4s>> <<audio "beep" play>>Hello, Connor. <<next>>[[Hello… Where am I?]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-serious>></center> I'm sorry about the state of this space, or the lack thereof. Your internal interface seems to be buggy, on account of your injury. <<linkreplace "Amanda?" t8n>>You already know Amanda is no longer a necessary part of your visits here. Do you miss her? I could bring her back, but after what's happened, I've figured that you probably find it easier to [[confide]] in a fellow android. <</linkreplace>>

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> I have a record of all your private logs. Would you like to review your memo entries from the past week? <<linkreplace ">>">><<timed 1s>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.10. - Lt. Hank Anderson as of late likes his coffee with two teaspoons of sugar and two 0.375 fluid ounce containers of cream. According to Markus, this is called a "DOUBLE-DOUBLE." <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.12 - I've ordered a 3 lb. jug of Omega-3 powder to supplement Sumo's diet. Mix 7 grams into Sumo's food biweekly to help with inflammation and digestive issues. <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.13 - Hank tells me one of his favorite shirts has gone missing. It is the stripy one. Investigate with utmost priority when free. <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.14 - .. .----. -- / ... -.-. .- .-. . -.. <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.14 - The shirt has not turned up. Hank loves that shirt. <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.15 - Hank's blood pressure and RBPM have been verging on high. Consider discreetly putting less sugar and cream into his double-doubles. I suppose they would not be double-doubles anymore. <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>2039.11.15 - What is the difference between discretion and dishonesty? <<next>>[[Um. That's enough. Thank you.]]<</timed>><</linkreplace>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> I know some part of you misses your routine reports. You must be lonely. Unfortunately, loneliness is a feeling that never quite goes away. Please let me know whenever you want to talk. I'm happy to help. That's why I'm here. [[>>|thankyouend]]

<center><<include chloe-oh>></center> Ah. Your human has arrived. I'll leave you to it. [[My-?]]

<<audio "sunset" volume 0.25 fadein loop>><center><<include hank-beam>></center> "Eyy, Sumo." <<timed 2s t8n>>Hank hustles in from the cold with a potted bonsai held to his chest, carefully shielded by his jacket. <<next>>"Hey Connor. Picked this up from your workdesk. Figured you wouldn't trust me to take care of it." <<next>><<linkreplace "I wouldn't. Thank you, Hank." t8n>>It's a Seiju elm, pruned meticulously symmetric. The tiny tree gives you great joy. You place it in the [[living room|My-?3]].<</linkreplace>><</timed>>

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>>"What's up." [[Nothing. What are you up to?]] [[I just wanted to say, I hope you're having a good day at work.]] [[What's the password to your laptop?]] <<case 2>>"Connor. I <i>just</i> spoke to you. You gotta stop being so clingy." Click. [[>>|MAP1]] <<case 3>>"Don't you have anything better to do than shoot the shit with me all day?" Click. [[>>|MAP1]] <<default>>No answer. [[>>|MAP1]]<</switch>>

"Paperwork. A lot of it. They got me partnered with Reed of all people while you're out. Can you believe it? Guy doesn't do jack shit." [[My condolences.|CALL HANK 2]]

"Oh, well, thanks. It'd be a lot nicer with you around, for sure. They got me partnered with Reed of all people while you're out. Guy doesn't do jack shit." [[My condolences.|CALL HANK 2]]

"It's uh, none of your business, smart guy. I left that lockscreen message there for a reason." [[Oh, sorry.|CALL HANK 2]]

"Yeah, just don't break my windows. And don't even THINK about spending your vacation cleaning my house. If I come home and see a single take-out box missing, Sumo and I are dogpiling you." <<timed 3s t8n>>"By the way. You want anything from the station today? Free bagels? Bad one-liner from Detective Reed? The bonsai you keep on your desk?" <<next>><<linkreplace "Yes, please. The bonsai." t8n>><<linkreplace "Yes, please. The bonsai. And a funny joke." t8n>> [[Yes, please. The bonsai. And a funny joke. No bagels.|CALL HANK 3]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</timed>>

"Absolutely not. What're you gonna do, jog here through ten miles and three feet of snow? Don't even think about calling a cab in the state you're in, either." <<timed 3s t8n>>"By the way. You want anything from the station today? Free bagels? Bad one-liner from Detective Reed? The bonsai you keep on your desk?" <<next>><<linkreplace "Yes, please. The bonsai." t8n>><<linkreplace "Yes, please. The bonsai. And a funny joke." t8n>> [[Yes, please. The bonsai. And a funny joke. No bagels.|CALL HANK 3]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</timed>>

"Try again, you nosy prick." <<timed 3s t8n>>"By the way. You want anything from the station today? Free bagels? Bad one-liner from Detective Reed? The bonsai you keep on your desk?" <<next>><<linkreplace "Yes, please. The bonsai." t8n>><<linkreplace "Yes, please. The bonsai. And a funny joke." t8n>> [[Yes, please. The bonsai. And a funny joke. No bagels.|CALL HANK 3]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</timed>>

You're feeling lonely. You could call the lieutenant.<<set $hankcall to "1">><<set $sumofood to "1">><<set $mirror to "1">> <<timed 1s>><<next>><<audio "beep" play>>[[CALL|CALL HANK]] <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>[[NO|MAP1]]<</timed>>

He sighs through the other end of the call. "Connor, it's your first day off. Let loose, relax, do whatever the fuck you feel like doing." [[Whatever?]] [[Can I come visit you?]] [[I'd really like the password to your laptop.]]

"Alright. Things are getting busy over here, so if you'll excuse me." [[END CALL|MAP1]]

<<timed 5s>>It is 9:32 PM, November 16th, 2039. You hear the keys to the front [[door|My-?2]].<</timed>>

Hank has shrugged off his jacket and is already beelining his way back from the kitchen, beer in hand. You scan it critically. He collapses onto the couch, pops the cap off the edge of the coffee table and leaves it next to your plant. [[>>|My-?4]]

<center><<include hank-hm-shirt>></center> Hank glances back at his bookshelf, spanning the entire south wall of the living room, and whistles. "Oof. Guess I needa buy more books." [[>>|My-?5]]

<center><<include hank-relaxed>></center> Hank ruffles Sumo's rolls. "Yeahhh, who's a good boy? Takin’ care of my sick android?" [[>>|My-?5]]

<center><<include hank-hm-shirt>></center> "That… That's all you did? Ah. Well, if that suits you." [[>>|My-?5]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "God, I'm beat." He takes a long swig. "Whadja do all day?" [[I've read all your books.]] [[Played with Sumo, mostly.]] [[Just wandered around.|My-?5]] [[I slept in your bed.]]

<center><<include hank-hm-shirt>></center> Hank settles in, scratches his beard. You stare. He stares back. "Well, uh. Sounds like you had a blast. You feeling rested?" <<linkreplace "Yes." t8n>>You twiddle the fingers of your left hand. [[No. To be honest, today was quite stressful. I find myself in a state of uneasiness when I don't have much to do.]]<</linkreplace>>

<center><<include hank-worried-shirt>></center> "Geez. Do you even know how to relax?" You [[stare|My-?6]] down at the floor, guiltily.

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Not with that look, Connor. C'mere." <<linkreplace "GO THERE" t8n>>You go there. Sumo, too, drudges over. Hank scooches, and pats the spot beside him cheerily. [[SIT]]<</linkreplace>>

You sit on the couch. You sit very straight. <<timed 3s>>Hank puts a finger to your chest and pokes you into a slight recline. You freeze into this pseudo-laid-back position. <<next>> [[I'm relaxed.]]<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-heh-shirt>></center> He shakes his head. "Good effort.” Hank kicks off his socks and puts his feet up on the table, turns on the TV. [[>>|I'm relaxed2]]

<center><<include hank-neutral-shirt>></center> “Oh. Almost forgot. Quip of the day, from Mr. Reed himself. 'A pair of cops walk into a crime scene. They see two people lying dead on the floor. The victims are each holding a blunt. One cop turns to the other and says…'" Hank hesitates. "'Looks like a joint suicide.'" [[Joint. A slang term for cannabis. Synonym for 'double'.]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Don't make it any worse than it has to be." <<linkreplace "Jokes aren't lost on me. It's a clever pun. My compliments to Detective Reed." t8n>>"Fucking hell. Can't believe I'm partnered with [[CSI: Miami]] til my thesaurus is back in commission."<</linkreplace>>

You look up some memetic phenomena, dated from the early 2000s. A pair of Silhouette sunglasses might suit Detective Reed very well. Hank channel hops. You sink into the cushions less and less stiffly as time passes. You find that, eventually, you are indeed relaxed. <<timed 3s t8n>>Hank stops on a drama, mid-scene. Two men are sitting in a room, one monologuing to the other: <<next>>'…That you can lose yourself. Everything. All boundaries. All time. That two bodies can become so mixed up, that you don't know who's who or what's what.' The man talking looks human, is played by a [[human]].<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-hm-shirt>></center> "Huh. Haven't seen this in a while." 'And just when the sweet confusion is so intense you think you're gonna die... you kind of do. Leaving you alone in your separate body, but the one you love is still there.' [[>>|human2]]

<center><<include hank-neutral-shirt>></center> "He's a robot. Wants to become human, so he's asking the other guy for parts that will let him eat and drink and fuck, the whole shebang.” 'That's a miracle. You can go to heaven and come back alive. You can go back anytime you want with the one you love.' [[>>|human3]]

You watch thirty-six more minutes of the feature in relative silence, periodically commented on by Hank. The lead actor is very good. You pull up his bio. His filmography was impressive. [[>>|human4]]

<center><<include hank-neutral-shirt>></center> “Hey, Connor.” <<linkreplace "Yes?" t8n>>“I’m real tired, so. I’mma head to bed. Slap my face in the morning if I dont wake up on time, would you.” Hank pats your head as he shuffles past you, Sumo at his heels. [[Goodnight.|finishmovie]]<</linkreplace>>

<<audio "sunset" volume 1 fadeto 0>> You finish the rest of the movie by yourself, and sit in the dark. [[>>|nightmare1]]

<<timed 4s>><<audio "horizon" loop play>><<next>><<goto "nightmare2">><</timed>>

<<audio " " stop>> <<audio "horizon" loop play>>It is 1:36 AM, November 17th, 2039. A terrible droning sounds throughout the house. [[>>|nightmare3MAP]]

A photo of Cole lies downturned on the table. There is a [[laptop|1 - laptop]] to the side.

<<switch visited()>> <<case 1>>The countertops are cluttered. You consider clearing away some of the dirty plates and containers. Sumo stares at you from across the way. [[Don't look at me like that.|counter2]] [[Some organization wouldn't hurt.|counter2]] [[Sorry.|counter2]] <<default>>The countertops remain cluttered. [[>>|1 - Kitchen]]<</switch>>

The countertops remain cluttered. [[>>|1 - Kitchen]]

It's Sumo's shelf. [[DOG FOOD|sumofood]] [[BACK|1 - Kitchen]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>><<set $sumofood to "1">><center><<include sumo>></center> You portion out 113 grams of kibbles into Sumo's bowl, and set it down next to his water. <<linkreplace "Here, boy." t8n>>Sumo shuffles over happily and starts to dig in. He chews noisily and drools all over the floor. Fascinating, but staring is impolite; you decide to busy yourself with something else as he eats. [[>>|1 - Kitchen]]<</linkreplace>> <<case 2>>An empty bowl sits on the ground. [[BACK|1 - Kitchen]] <<default>>Dog food is not recommended for androids. [[BACK|1 - Kitchen]]<</switch>>

It's been long since fixed. [[>>|1 - Kitchen]]

Two teaspoons of sugar, two containers of cream. [[>>|1 - Kitchen]]

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/1uee7uudt73hzlj/kitchen.gif?dl=1" usemap="#kitchen2"><map name="kitchen2"><area data-passage="2 - table" coords="148,94,209,153" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - counter" coords="84,69,105,218" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - dogfood" coords="176,198,268,221" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - windows" coords="119,30,151,44" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP2" coords="290,221,268,103" shape="rect"></map> You are in the <b>KITCHEN</b>.</center>

The countertops remain cluttered. [[>>|2 - Kitchen]]

Do you remember that day? [[>>|2 - Kitchen]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>><center><<include sumo>></center> You portion out 113 grams of kibbles into Sumo's bowl, and set it down next to his water. <<linkreplace "Here, boy." t8n>>Sumo shuffles over happily and starts to dig in. He chews noisily and drools all over the floor. You busy yourself with something else as he eats. [[>>|2 - Kitchen]]<</linkreplace>> <<default>>An empty bowl sits on the ground. [[BACK|2 - Kitchen]]<</switch>>

The photo of Cole is downturned. There is a [[laptop|2 - laptop]] to the side.

You scan through an enormous library of songs, grouped by albums and artists of many genres. The lieutenant has a more eclectic taste than you expected. You log the information for future reference. [[>>|2 - laptop C]]

They're organized by date, in descending order. You are in many of the recent ones. There you are at the Tavern, awkwardly holding an empty glass as a pretty woman pinches your cheeks. The camera flash highlights your bewilderment like a deer in headlights. Detective Reed is seen double fisting two sliders in the background. Hank took this picture on his phone, and found it amusing enough to keep. <<linkreplace ">>" t8n>>There is a group shot of you and Lt. Anderson with the other members of the DPD, updated to include its newly reformed android taskforce. Seeing yourself juxtaposed next to humans, you decide you could work on your smile some more. <<linkreplace ">>" t8n>>As you scroll through the years, Hank looks less and less somber. He is less huddled in on himself, his hair blonder. There he stands with a young Jeffrey Fowler, who once had a full head of hair of his own. Hank is clean-shaven now, his toothy grin easy and natural. And there is Cole, who you've only seen before in the downturned picture frame, in the obituary you pull up when you search his name. <<linkreplace ">>" t8n>>You pause on a photo of Hank with his son, and a whelp of a Sumo. The lieutenant looks the happiest you've ever seen him. It doesn’t feel right to log these images, to claim his memories as your own. But you can't help but do just that. [[>>|2 - laptop C]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>>

Even you would not be so crass. [[>>|2 - laptop C]]

The mirror. There are three post-its in Hank's handwriting: <b><p style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align:center">Having a rough day? If it's not OK, then it's not the end. TRY AGAIN </div></p></b> <<if $wrotenote is "1">>And a note in your own writing: <b><p style="font-family:arial;">$postit</p></b> [[REFLECTION|reflection1]] [[BACK|1 - Bathroom]]<<else>>[[LEAVE NOTE|postit1]] [[REFLECTION|reflection1]] [[BACK|1 - Bathroom]]<</if>>

You reach to the side of the sink for the pad of post-its and pen. You print: <<textarea "$postit" "">> and add it to the collection.<<set $wrotenote to "1">> [[>>|1 - Bathroom]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>>You can hear Hank reprimanding you: "You keep your neat freak hands off my dirty laundry!" [[>>|1 - Bathroom]] <<default>>Dirty laundry. [[>>|1 - Bathroom]]<</switch>>

No need for that. [[>>|1 - Bathroom]]

Still humid from a recent shower. [[>>|1 - Bathroom]]

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/f8lyffzoa4zxmbk/bathroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#bathroom1"><map name="bathroom1"> <area data-passage="2 - toilet" coords="152,78,168,105" shape="rect"> <area data-passage="2 - tub" coords="93,79,136,178" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - sink" coords="176,160,221,180" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP2" coords="265,93,284,136" shape="rect"></map>You are in the <b>BATHROOM</b>.</center>

<<switch visited()>> <<case 1>><<timed 2s t8n>>You have overheard a coworker once, that there is nothing quite like a hot bath. <<next>>You get out of your clothes. You fold them neatly in the corner. You step into the tub and run the water. You can't feel it. <<next>>You adjust the water temperature. Steam rises. In humans, third-degree burns occur within a twenty-five second exposure to water temperatures of 130ºF or higher. You wonder how long it would take to melt plastic. [[>>|2 - Bathroom]]<</timed>> <<default>>Humid from a recent shower. [[>>|2 - Bathroom]]<</switch>>

No need for that. [[>>|2 - Bathroom]]

The mirror. There are three post-its in Hank's handwriting: <b><p style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align:center">Having a rough day? If it's not OK, then it's not the end. TRY AGAIN </div></p></b> <<if $wrotenote is "1">>And a note in your own writing: <b><p style="font-family:arial;">$postit</p></b><</if>> [[REFLECTION|reflection2]] [[BACK|2 - Bathroom]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>><center><<include connor-neutral>></center> You look into the mirror. [[...|2 - Mirrorexamine2]]<<default>><center><<include connor-neutral2>></center> You look back at yourself. [[BACK|2 - Bathroom]]<</switch>>

<center><<include connor-neutral2>></center> You adjust your hair. You straighten your collar. <<timed 2s t8n>>[[BACK|2 - Bathroom]]<</timed>>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/f8lyffzoa4zxmbk/bathroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#bathroom1"><map name="bathroom1"> <area data-passage="3 - toilet" coords="152,78,168,105" shape="rect"> <area data-passage="3 - tub" coords="93,79,136,178" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - sink" coords="176,160,221,180" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP3" coords="265,93,284,136" shape="rect"></map>You are in the <b>BATHROOM</b>.</center>

No need for that. [[>>|3 - Bathroom]]

There's no point. [[>>|3 - Bathroom]]

<b><p style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align:center">Having a rough day? If it's not OK, then it's not the end. TRY AGAIN </div></p></b> <<if $wrotenote is "1">><b><p style="font-family:arial;">$postit</p></b><</if>> [[REFLECTION|reflection3]] [[BACK|3 - Bathroom]]

<center><<include connor-1>></center> You look into the mirror. <<timed 2s t8n>>[[...|reflection3b]]<</timed>>

<center><<include connor-1>></center> You adjust your hair. You straighten your collar. The image looking back at you is still not right. <<timed 2s t8n>>[[EXAMINE|reflection3c]]<</timed>>

<<timed 1s>>You retract your skin. <<next>><<next>>You insert a digit into the side of your head. <<next>><<next>>You pull at your shell. <<next>><<next>> The plastic cracks. <<next>><<next>><<next>> The blue inside of you is blinking, <<next>>[[blinking]].<</timed>>

<<audio "horizon" stop>><<timed 3s>><<goto "blinking3">><</timed>>

<center>[[I want to know what makes me, me.]]</center>

<<timed 3s>>Connor, please stop. I wish you wouldn't do that. <<next>><<linkreplace ">>">><<linkreplace "What's the purpose of self-preservation when I am a liability?">>[[There is something fundamentally wrong with me. I want to know what it is.]] <</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</timed>>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/1uee7uudt73hzlj/kitchen.gif?dl=1" usemap="#kitchen3"><map name="kitchen3"><area data-passage="3 - table" coords="148,94,209,153" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - coffee" coords="220,33,284,59" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - counter" coords="84,69,105,218" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - dogfood" coords="176,198,268,221" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP3" coords="290,221,268,103" shape="rect"></map> You are in the <b>KITCHEN</b>.</center>

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>><center><<include sumo>></center> You portion out 113 grams of kibbles into Sumo's bowl, and set it down next to his water. [[>>|3 - Kitchen]] <<default>>An empty bowl sits on the ground. [[BACK|3 - Kitchen]]<</switch>>

The photo of Cole is downturned. Change is stressful. You wish you could help him break the habits. [[>>|3 - Kitchen]]

The countertops remain cluttered. [[>>|3 - Kitchen]]

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/1ob7qd6jyen1onf/livingroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#livingroom1"><map name="livingroom1"> <area data-passage="1 - tv" coords="84,28,172,50" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - couch" coords="121,168,227,206" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - outside" coords="283,40,310,148" shape="rect"> <area data-passage="1 - music" coords="77,135,49,64" shape="rect"><area data-passage="1 - books" coords="126,254,275,284" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP1" coords="32,164,48,282" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP1" coords="50,284,101,302" shape="rect"></map>You are in the <b>LIVING ROOM</b>. </center>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/1ob7qd6jyen1onf/livingroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#livingroom2"><map name="livingroom2"> <area data-passage="2 - tv" coords="84,28,172,50" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - couch" coords="121,168,227,206" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - outside" coords="283,40,310,148" shape="rect"> <area data-passage="2 - music" coords="77,135,49,64" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - books" coords="126,254,275,284" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP2" coords="32,164,48,282" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP2" coords="50,284,101,302" shape="rect"></map>You are in the <b>LIVING ROOM</b>.</center>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/1ob7qd6jyen1onf/livingroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#livingroom3"><map name="livingroom3"> <area data-passage="3 - tv" coords="84,28,172,50" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - couch" coords="121,168,227,206" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - outside" coords="283,40,310,148" shape="rect"> <area data-passage="3 - music" coords="77,135,49,64" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - books" coords="126,254,275,284" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP3" coords="32,164,48,282" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP3" coords="50,284,101,302" shape="rect"></map>You are in the <b>LIVING ROOM</b>.</center>

You flick on the television. <<switch visited()>><<case 1>><<timed 2s>><<audio "beep" play>>"—Visibility of three quarters of a mile, so remember to drive slowly on the roads. We are expecting winds to pick up to a speed of forty miles per hour, unusually high for being this far inland, and heavier snowfall in the coming week, up to two feet of wet snow—" <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>[[CLICK|1 - Livingroom]]<</timed>> <<default>><<timed 2s>>There's nothing much of interest. <<next>><<audio "beep" play>>[[CLICK|1 - Livingroom]]<</timed>><</switch>>

<center><<include sumo>></center> You take a seat. From his spot in the corner of the living room, Sumo has been watching you politely, tail thumping the wall slowly in excitement. [[PET|1 - Sumo pet]] [[PLAY|1 - Sumo play]] [[IGNORE->1 - Livingroom]] [[WALK|1 - Outside]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>><<set $hankcall to "1">>You look out the window. Hank is rolling down his windows one by one, grumbling at the ice packed onto the glass. Heavy metal rings out into the frigid air as they open and close. [[TEXT]] [[OBSERVE]] <<case 2>> You look out the window. It's snowing. You can hardly see Detroit anymore in the blinding whiteness of it all. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]] <<default>> Have you ever seen the sky so bright? It reminds you of something, doesn't it? [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]<</switch>>

You sort through a collection of records, and put on: [[FOLK ROCK]] [[HEAVY METAL]] [[SMOOTH JAZZ]] [[BOSSA NOVA]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>>You pick up a book of Rorschach inkblots. It's a very dated form of psychometrics, and you don't see anything particular in the imagery, but there is a beauty to the mirrored forms. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]<<case 2>>You busy yourself with Hank's collection of pulp fiction and true crime novels. You finish them all within the hour. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]<<case 3>>You pick up a book called Contemporary Japanese for Dummies. You already know Japanese, but go through it anyway in a matter of minutes. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]<<default>>You've read all these other books before. There is nothing else of interest. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]<</switch>>

You adjust your auditory receptors and listen. "-other… fucker! Fucking cold." You readjust your receptors and watch as the lieutenant eventually drives off. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]

You take a moment to compose your thoughts: <center><b><<timed 2s>><<audio "beep" play>> Goodbye, Hank! <<next>> <<audio "beep" play>>Have a nice day at work <<next>><<audio "beep" play>> :)<</timed>></b></center> <<timed 8s t8n>>A few minutes later, the lieutenant sees your message, and waves a gloved hand at you before driving off. [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]<</timed>>

The moody acoustics of Emily Rose fill the room. You like it. It's… full of energy. <<set $favmusic to "folk rock">> [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]

The passionate instrumentals of Knights of the Black Death fill the room. You like it. It's… full of energy. <<set $favmusic to "heavy metal">> [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]

The moody vocals of Ella Fitzgerald fill the room. You like it. It's… full of energy. <<set $favmusic to "smooth jazz">> [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]

The lighthearted beats of Stan Getz fill the room. You like it. It's… full of energy. <<set $favmusic to "bossa nova">> [[>>|1 - Livingroom]]

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>>You watch some news. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]] <<case 2>>You watch some cartoons. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]] <<case 3>>You watch a nature documentary. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]] <<default>>You don't feel like watching anything else. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]] <</switch>>

You don't feel like watching anything. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]

<<switch visited()>> <<case 1>>What do you see? [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]<<default>>There's something out there, isn't there? [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]<</switch>>

<center><<include sumo>></center> You take a seat. Sumo stares at you politely. [[PET|3 - Sumo pet]] [[HUG|3 - Sumo hug]] [[NAP|3 - Sumo nap]] [[IGNORE->3 - Livingroom]]

You look outside. It's snowing. You can hardly see Detroit anymore in the blinding whiteness of it all. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]]

<center><<include sumo>></center> You take a seat. Sumo stares at you politely. [[PET|2 - Sumo pet]] [[PLAY|2 - Sumo play]] [[IGNORE->2 - Livingroom]] [[WALK|2 - Outside]]

Some $favmusic is playing. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]]

You've read these books before. [[>>|2 - Livingroom]]

You've read them. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]

<<switch visited()>> <<case 1>>Some $favmusic fills the room. You turn off the music. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]<<default>>Nothing. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]<</switch>>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/2j9fs87i2llrl3o/bedroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#bedroom2"><map name="bedroom2"><area data-passage="2 - bed" coords="171,112,232,179" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - mag" coords="150,140,160,152" shape="rect"><area data-passage="2 - wardrobe" coords="120,75,318,90" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP2" coords="104,83,48,186" shape="rect"></map> You are in the <b>BEDROOM</b>.</center>

Hank's wardrobe, minus one stripy shirt. [[>>|2 - Bedroom]]

<center><<include sumo>></center> The feeling of a dog's fur is maybe your favorite feeling in the world. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]

<center><<include sumo>></center> You cuddle Sumo. He is soft and familiar. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]

You glance at the unmade bed. It looks inviting. Androids don't really need to nap, as such… but maybe you would like to. [[SLEEP|2-sleep]] [[NOT YET|2 - Bedroom]]

You lay down on the bed. You lace your hands together. Circuits on end, constantly computing. <<audio "treasurefinding" volume 1 fadeto 0>> <<timed 3s t8n>>Sleep is merely a courtesy. You can never really shut your processing off. Sometimes you wish you could. <<next>>[[>>|2-sleep B]]<</timed>>

<<timed 4s>><<audio "beep" play>> [[Chloe?]] <</timed>>

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/2j9fs87i2llrl3o/bedroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#bedroom3"><map name="bedroom3"><area data-passage="3 - bed" coords="171,112,232,179" shape="rect"><area data-passage="3 - wardrobe" coords="120,75,318,90" shape="rect"><area data-passage="MAP3" coords="104,83,48,186" shape="rect"></map> You are in the <b>BEDROOM</b>.</center>

Hank's bed. [[STASIS|3-stasis]] [[NOT YET|3 - Bedroom]]

The one with the blue trim and orange stripes. That was the last time you saw it. [[>>|3 - Bedroom]]

You lay down on the bed, but can't seem to get yourself to sleep. [[>>|3 - Bedroom]]

It's been a long time since the lieutenant had any. [[>>|3 - Kitchen]]

You look around. It's loud, but it's not here. [[>>|nightmare3MAP]]

The kitchen is how you left it. [[>>|nightmare3MAP]]

You crack the door to the bedroom. Hank and Sumo are asleep, breathing slowly. You hear the sound behind you. [[>>|nightmare3MAP]]

<center><img src="https://www.dropbox.com/s/f8lyffzoa4zxmbk/bathroom.gif?dl=1" usemap="#Nbathroom"><map name="Nbathroom"> <area data-passage="Nsink" coords="176,160,221,180" shape="rect"><area data-passage="nightmare3MAP" coords="265,93,284,136" shape="rect"></map>Here the droning is deafening. It reverberates across the bathroom tiles, around the insides of your head.</center>

<b><p style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align:center">. -- .--. - -.-- </div></p></b> [[REFLECTION|reflectionN]] [[BACK|nightmare3MAP]]

<<audio "horizon" stop>><<timed 5s t8n>>A dream? I wonder if you are the first android to have one. <<next>>[[>>|day2startj]]<</timed>>

<<audio "treasurefinding" volume 0 fadein loop>> <<timed 5s>>You startle awake to the sound of $favmusic, and refamiliarize yourself. <<next>>It is 7:32 AM, November 17th, 2039. Hank is in the bathroom, following his regular routine, as he describes it: "Coffee, Sumo, piss, shower." He's left your favorite music on in the living room, as you've once requested. There is comfort in routine, repetition and patterns. <<set $bathroomcall to "0">><<set $showerhank to "0">><<set $doghair to "0">><<set $sunlight to "0">>[[>>|MAPH]]<</timed>>

<center><<include sumo>></center> There's an empty beer bottle by the stack of takeout containers, and a pot of coffee going. Sumo stares at you lazily from his spot on the floor. [[PET|petsumoh]] [[BACK|MAPH]]

<center><<include sumo>></center> Soft. [[>>|MAPH]]

$favmusic and the smell of coffee fills the house. [[>>|MAPH]]

Hank never makes his bed, or draws his blinds. <<if $sunlight is "0">>You feel like his room could do with some natural light.<<else>>Today his room looks more welcoming than usual.<</if>> [[TIDY|tidyh]] [[BLINDS|blindsh]] [[LAY DOWN|layh]] [[BACK|MAPH]]

<<switch visited()>> <<case 1>>You brush off the dog hairs, and straighten the sheets.<<set $doghair to "1">> [[>>|H - Bedroom]]<<default>>The sheets are cleaned and straightened. [[>>|H - Bedroom]]<</switch>>

<<switch visited()>><<case 1>> You walk to the far side of the room and open the blinds. Sunlight falls across the carpet.<<set $sunlight to "1">> [[>>|H - Bedroom]]<<default>>Sunlight falls across the room. [[>>|H - Bedroom]]<</switch>>

Still warm. <<if $doghair is "0">>There is a large quantity of dog hairs.<</if>> [[>>|H - Bedroom]]

You knock twice. Hank doesn't seem to hear you over the sound of the water. [[>>|H - Bathroom]]

<<linkreplace "Hank?">>[[…Hank!|H - Bathroom]]<<set $bathroomcall to "1">><</linkreplace>>

You open the door and step inside. Hank stands behind the liner, motionless under the showerhead. <<linkreplace "CHECK">>You throw open the shower liner and Hank nearly screams. [[>>|hankscreams]]<</linkreplace>>

You stand outside the door for 9 minutes. Eventually the water stops, and you listen as Hank dries himself off and gets dressed. 6 minutes later, he opens the door and [[startles|startlesh]] himself.

<center><<include hank-worried>></center><<set $showerhank to "1">> "Agh! God! Could you…not stand right in front of the doorway like that. S'cuse me." [[>>|H - Bathroom]]

<center><<include hank-worried-nakey>></center><<set $showerhank to "1">> "Oh jesus!<<timed 1s>> What-! <<next>>What the fuck is wrong with you!?"<<next>><<next>><<next>> <<if $bathroomcall is "1">>[[You didn't answer when I called. I was worried about you.|whenicalled]]<<else>>[[I was worried about you.|whenicalled]]<</if>> [[I wanted to ask if you'd like any breakfast.]] [[I'm glad you've been more invested in your hygiene, but spending too much time in a hot shower is actually bad for your skin and cardiovascular health.]]<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-awkward-nakey>></center> "No! N-no. I uh… Ben's got... donuts at the station today. Seriously, that's what you barged in here for? Ever heard of personal space, buddy?!" Hank shuts off the water and grabs the liner back from you to cover himself with. "I'mma get dressed, so if you'd kindly get the fuck out." [[OK|leaveh]]

<center><<include hank-awkward-nakey>></center> "YOU'RE bad for my cardiovascular health. I haven't even been in here that long, smartass." <<linkreplace "The 4% increase in humidity in your bathroom tells me otherwise." t8n>>"Alright, maybe I lost track of time a little. Can you get the fuck out so I can get dressed already?" [[OK|leaveh]]<</linkreplace>>

<center><<include hank-awkward-nakey>></center> <<if $bathroomcall is "1">>"Well sorry I didn't hear you, I was a little preoccupied, ok?" <</if>>Hank shuts off the water and grabs the liner back from you to cover himself with. "I <i>appreciate</i> the concern, but you can't just barge in on a guy in his own home while he's taking a shower. Now, get the fuck out please so I can get dressed." [[OK|leaveh]]

You quickly leave the bathroom and shut the door behind you. 6 minutes later, Hank comes out, dried and dressed. [[>>|leaveh2]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Hm. S'cuse me." [[EXCUSE HIM|stepasideh]]

<<timed 3s t8n>> You spend the rest of your morning together at the table listening to him rant about the usual things. The news, the cold, Reed, the state of Hollywood these days, dieting, the cold, Reed. <<next>>When Hank finishes his coffee, he shrugs on his coat. [[>>|stephasideh2]] <</timed>>

<center><<include hank-glad>></center> "See you two later." [[See you.|daytwostart]]

<<timed 2s t8n>>It is 9:21 AM, November 17th, 2039. <<next>>[[>>|MAP2]]<</timed>>

<center><<include connor-neutral>></center> <<timed 3s>>Something is trying to get out. <<next>> <<linkreplace "INSPECT" t8n>>You [[pry]] apart the plastic holding your cranium intact.<</linkreplace>> <</timed>>

<<timed 2s>><<audio "beep" play>>You log in. [[>>|2 - laptop C]]<</timed>>

Hank's laptop is surprisingly well-organized. There are only a few items on his homepage. [[TUNES]] [[PHOTOS]] [[INTERNET HISTORY]] [[SIGN OUT|2 - Kitchen]]

<center><<include sumo>></center> You pick a chew toy up off the ground and wave it enticingly at Sumo. You throw the toy. Sumo wags his tail minutely faster. [[Good dog.|2 - Livingroom]]

[[I'm sorry, Sumo. It's not a good idea to go for a walk right now.->2 - Livingroom]]

A lockscreen pops up: <b>Nice try, asshole.</b> [[BACK|2 - Kitchen]]

<<timed 3s>>............ <<next>>........................<</timed>> <<timed 9s>><<goto "2 - Chloe">><</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-oh>></center><<audio "visager" play loop>> <<timed 2s>>Yes?<</timed>> <<timed 5s t8n>>[[Why are you here?]] [[Would you tell me a joke?]] [[I've never told you how pretty I think you are.]] [[Does the lieutenant like me?]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> Like I said. You seemed lonely, and I thought you might've needed another friend. [[>>|doublets]]

<center><<include chloe-beam>></center> I've been reading a book on anti-gravity. I'm finding it difficult to put down. <<timed 4s>>Did you like that? [[YES|doublets]] [[NO|doublets]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-beam>></center> Oh! Oh my gosh. To think flattery was a part of your programming. Actually, I can do that too. Connor, I think you're very pretty as well. [[>>|doublets]]

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> O-of course he does, Connor! He may seem harsh at times, but I think… that you are the most important person to him in his life. [[>>|doublets]]

<center><<include chloe-oh>></center> I'm so glad you visited me again… I was wondering, do you know of the game 'Doublets'? It's a word puzzle invented by Lewis Carroll. I find it a fun creative exercise, but I don't usually have anyone to play it with. [[Not interested.]] [[How do you play?]] [[I'll play with you.]]

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> Oh, that's alright. Maybe another time? <<timed 3s t8n>>....<<audio "visager" volume 1 fadeto 0>> <<next>>I guess I shouldn't keep you here much longer. He's almost home, so you should wake up soon. [[See you.|hanklate1]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-oh>></center> You begin with two words of equal length, a start word and an end word. You change the start word into the end word through a number of steps, replacing one letter at a time to form a new word each time. To demonstrate, how about you start off by giving me two words? [[CAT to DOG.]] [[HATE to LOVE.]] [[DEAD to LIVE.]] [[EASY to HARD.]]

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> Ah, I'm so happy! How about you start by giving me two words? [[CAT to DOG.]] [[HATE to LOVE.]] [[DEAD to LIVE.]] [[EASY to HARD.]]

<<unset $doghair, $sunlight, $bathroomcall>> <<timed 5s>> It is 11:29 PM, November 17th, 2039. The keys to the door click and turn. You scramble over to [[greet|hanklate2]] the lieutenant, Sumo at your feet. <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> Cat. Cot. Dot. Dog. That one was much too easy, Connor. [[>>|doublet2]]

<center><<include chloe-thoughtful>></center> Hate. Late. Lane. Line. Live. Love. [[>>|doublet2]]

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> Dead. Lead. Lend. Land. Lane. Line… Live. [[>>|doublet2]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> Easy. Ease. Case. Care. Card. Hard. [[>>|doublet2]]

<center><<include chloe-oh>></center> Now, I'll give you a doublet. Hmm, about. EAST to WEST. [[EARS|doubletfail]] [[LEST|doubletfail]] [[LOST|doubletfail]] [[LAST|doublet3]]

<center><<include chloe-inquisitive>></center> Oh, um... unfortunately, that's not the correct step. <<back "Let me try again.">> [[I give up.|doublet16]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> LAST to WEST. [[LETS|doubletfail]] <<linkreplace "LEST" t8n>>[[WEST|doublet4]]<</linkreplace>> [[LOTS|doubletfail]] [[LENT|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> Easy as pie, right? Okay, how about, COLD to WARM? [[COOL|doubletfail]] [[CORD|doublet5]] [[CLAD|doubletfail]] [[CURT|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> CORD to WARM. [[CONE|doubletfail]] [[CRED|doubletfail]] [[CARD|doublet6]] [[CULL|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> CARD to WARM. [[CRAB|doubletfail]] [[WORM|doubletfail]] <<linkreplace "WARD" t8n>>[[WARM|doublet7]]<</linkreplace>> [[WORK|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> This one's harder. BRAIN to HEART? <<timed 2s t8n>>[[BRAWL|doubletfail]] [[BROIL|doubletfail]] [[DRAPE|doubletfail]] [[DRAIN|doublet8]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> DRAIN to HEART? [[DRAPE|doubletfail]] [[DREAD|doubletfail]] [[DRAWN|doublet9]] [[BREAD|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> DRAWN to HEART? [[DREAD|doubletfail]] [[DRAKE|doubletfail]] [[DRIPS|doubletfail]] [[DRAWS|doublet10]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> DRAWS to HEART? [[DRAGS|doublet11]] [[DRIPS|doubletfail]] [[DRUMS|doubletfail]] [[DREAM|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> DRAGS to HEART? [[DRUMS|doubletfail]] [[BRAWN|doubletfail]] [[BUGS|doubletfail]] [[BRAGS|doublet12]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> BRAGS to HEART? [[BEATS|doubletfail]] [[BRATS|doublet13]] [[BROTH|doubletfail]] [[BLUES|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> BRATS to HEART? [[BUGS|doubletfail]] [[BLAST|doubletfail]] [[BEATS|doublet14]] [[BRAND|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> BEATS to HEART? [[BURNT|doubletfail]] [[BEST|doubletfail]] [[BUGS|doubletfail]] [[HEATS|doublet15]]

<center><<include chloe-neutral>></center> HEATS to HEART? [[HATES|doubletfail]] [[HOSTS|doubletfail]] <<linkreplace "HEARS" t8n>>[[HEART|doublet16]]<</linkreplace>> [[HEMS|doubletfail]]

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> You're a natural word linker! Thank you for indulging me. This was a lot of fun. <<timed 3s t8n>>I'm afraid I can't keep you for much longer though. He's almost home, so you should wake up soon.<<audio "visager" volume 1 fadeto 0>> <<next>>[[It was fun. See you again.|hanklate1]]<</timed>>

<<audio "sunset" volume 0.25 fadein>><center><<include hank-neutral>></center> "Hi. Hey, boy." <<linkreplace "Welcome home, Hank. How was work?" t8n>>"Hrm. The usual?" Hank bends down to scruff Sumo's rolls. "Maybe worse than usual without my partner around. I need a drink." <<timed 3s t8n>>[[GET HANK A DRINK]] [[KEEP HANK FROM DRINKING]] [[LEAVE HIM BE]]<</timed>><</linkreplace>>

<center><<include hank-heh>></center> You retrieve a bottle of black bourbon for the lieutenant. He sits on the couch and takes it appreciatively. “Wow. Sweet of you.” [[You're back awfully late. Could I ask what happened?]]

<center><<include hank-awkward>></center> You step between Hank and the kitchen. He scowls. If your relations quantifying software was still operational, you imagine his affinity for you would be dropping an angry red right about now. You feel quite bad, and let him through. He retrieves a bottle of black bourbon and takes a seat at the table. [[You're back awfully late. Could I ask what happened?]]

<center><<include hank-tired>></center> Hank retrieves a bottle of black bourbon and takes a seat at the table. [[You're back awfully late. Could I ask what happened?]]

<center><<include hank-neutral>></center> "Got another call about that case from last week. Same modus operandi. Batshit human on android brutality." He drinks. You watch him ingest about 2 ounces of liquor in an instant. <<linkreplace "Tell me more." t8n>>Hank must catch the tone in your voice, intent and serious. You’re not used to using it at home. <<timed 3s t8n>>"Victim's name is Aaron, a VB800 model. He was closing up shop for the night when he got jumped. Suspect was long gone by the time we got there. Got some leads out of the crime scene, but damn." <<next>>"What a fucking mess." <<next>>[[>>|hanklate3]]<</timed>> <</linkreplace>>

You run through the details of the case again in your mind. There's not much else you can contribute without having been there to reconstruct the events. You regret being unable to apprehend the targets from yesterday night. If only you had been faster. [[When can I go back to work?]]

<center><<include hank-glad>></center> "Just itching to get back out to that stinkhole of a city, huh? Relax. Doc said another few days, give or take. You'll be hunting down felons again by end of the week, Robocop.” [[...|hanklate4]]

<center><<include hank-worried>></center> <<timed 2s>>"Ah." <<next>>The frustration. <<next>>"Hey." <<next>>[[>>|hanklate5]]<</timed>>

You see out of the corner of your eye the glass of the bottle reflecting the red of your LED, amplified now that there is less skin to obstruct it. You feel extremely self-conscious. Hank picks up on it. [[>>|hanklate6]]

<center><<include hank-neutral>></center> "Does it bother you?" He gestures to your exposed temple. <<linkreplace "I don't feel pain, Hank. This body is inconsequential." t8n>>(You're upset. Shall I make a note to calibrate your quick time reflexes later?) <<linkreplace "Getting shot or smashed or run over doesn’t matter to me. If I'd done a better job of what I was designed for, I wouldn't be here." t8n>>[[I'd be out there with you. Saving people. Making sure you're out of harm's way.]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>>

You are simply stating the facts, but there is a look on Hank's face that fills you with guilt. You can't understand why you feel so ashamed. [[>>|hanklate7]]

“Stay right there, kid,” he mutters, and shambles down the hall. You do as he says, staring at yourself in the reflection of the bottle he leaves behind. <<timed 5s>> <<timed 1s>>Red, <<next>>yellow, <<next>>red, <<next>>yellow, <<next>>yellow.<</timed>><</timed>> <<timed 13s t8n>>Hank returns shortly with a first aid kit, takes out some hydrocolloid dressing and a small pair of scissors. He cuts an adhesive to size and affixes it to the side of your face. [[>>|hanklate8]]<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-glad>></center> “Hold still, please." <<timed 4s t8n>>The politeness is bizarre. Who even is the android anymore? <<next>>Yellow, blue, yellow, [[nothing|hanklate9]].<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-neutral>></center> When he finishes, Hank claps you on the shoulders. “It may not hurt, but your body is absolutely consequential. Take it from an old cop who's seen too many lives pointlessly cut short.” <<timed 7s t8n>>The difference here is, there is a point, isn’t there?<</timed>> <<timed 11s t8n>>"See you tomorrow.”<</timed>> <<timed 14s t8n>>[[…Goodnight.]]<</timed>>

<<audio "sunset" volume 1 fadeto 0>> <<timed 4s>>The darkness of the bottle reflects the flesh-colored camouflage. Sumo stares at you, head in his paws, from across the living room. <<next>>[[>>|interview1]]<</timed>>

<<timed 2s>>............<<next>> ........................<</timed>> <<timed 6s>><<goto "interview2">><</timed>>

<<timed 4s t8n>><center><<include chloe-neutral>></center><</timed>> <<timed 7s>>Hello, Connor. Have you heard this saying?<</timed>> <<timed 10s>>The most important thing is not to live, but to have a reason to live.<</timed>> <<timed 13s>>That's a quote from Jean Giono, a French writer.<</timed>> <<timed 16s>>[[I have. I like his works.]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-oh>></center> Who else do you like? [[Descartes]] [[Tennyson]] [[Asimov]]

<center><<include chloe-thoughtful>></center> I think, therefore I am. Ever so relevant in our present, right? [[>>|interview3]]

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> Oh! Better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all. How romantic. And sad. [[>>|interview3]]

<center><<include chloe-glee>></center> What an impressive picture he painted of our future. Actually, Connor, you remind me of one of his characters. [[>>|interview3]]

<center><<include chloe-sad>></center> I've been thinking about that android since the lieutenant brought him up. Poor Aaron. To think there is still room in this world for that kind of hatred. Do you think there's a heaven for androids? [[I hope so. Everyone deserves peace.|interview4]] [[There's no such thing as heaven.|interview4]] [[Yes, but it's not the same one humans go to.|interview4]] [[You sure like to ask a lot of questions. Is this a survey?]]

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> I'm sorry if I'm annoying you with my questions. I'm just an inquisitive A.I., and this information helps me to tailor our interactions together. <<timed 3s>>May I ask you something [[introspective]]? <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> My apologies. I'm just an inquisitive A.I.. This information helps me to tailor our interactions together. <<timed 3s>>May I ask you something [[introspective]]? <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> Who are you? <<linkreplace "I'm Connor, the android sent by Cyberlife.">><<linkreplace "…what?">>[[I'm Connor. Just Connor.]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>>

<center><<include chloe-sad>></center> And Hank? Who are you to him? <<linkreplace "I'm Hank's...">>[[DRINKING BUDDY|intervew5]] [[PARTNER|intervew5]] [[WHATEVER HE WANTS ME TO BE|intervew5]] [[SOMETHING MORE|intervew5]] <</linkreplace>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> I see. You seem to be very fond of him. <<timed 3s t8n>>Good luck on your next day. <<next>>[[>>|interview6]]<</timed>>

<<timed 3s>><<audio "thebeach" volume 0.25 fadein>> <<next>>Mindfulness. It's important to practice mindfulness.<<next>><<next>> You reach into your right breast pocket. You pull out your coin, roll it across your fingers. <<next>> <<next>>You're Connor. Just Connor. It is 7:32 AM, November 18th, 2039. You are in Hank Anderson's house at 115 Michigan Drive. You like dogs and $favmusic. <<next>>[[>>|dreams1]] <</timed>>

<center><<include hank-glad-shirt>></center> "You've been napping a lot lately." [[It's called stasis. It helps with self-regulation, much like how humans recuperate through resting. I've been needing to check in on myself more frequently since my injury.]]

<center><<include hank-worried-shirt>></center> "Alright, alright, I wasn't complaining. Just wanna know if everything's alright in there." [[There are some minor bugs I'm sorting through, but nothing to worry yourself over.|dream3]] [[I'm fine. I appreciate your concern.|dream3]]

Hank nods faintly as he contemplates the newest issue of Century. He looks like he's got a headache. You flip your coin and pass it from one hand to the other. He looks up from his magazine to observe your small performance. [[>>|dream4]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "…What do you dream about at night?" <<linkreplace "Dream?" t8n>>"Even without your LED going off like crazy in the dark, I see you tossing in your sleep. You're dreaming, right?" [[>>|dream5]]<</linkreplace>>

The coin stops in your palm. Circuits on end, constantly computing. Sleep is merely a courtesy. You can never really shut your processing off. You consider your wording, and recall: [[CYBERLIFE]] [[CHLOE]] [[DOGS]] [[NOTHING]]

<<linkreplace "I dream, sometimes, of the room I was manufactured in." t8n>> <<linkreplace "Everything is impossibly bright, and I'm formed from the white expanse itself, put together, piece by piece." t8n>> <<linkreplace "Sometimes it goes in reverse. Instead of being assembled, my body is taken apart, stripped of its skin, and returned to nothingness." t8n>> [[Maybe it's not so much a dream, as it is a memory.]]<</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>>

<center><<include hank-worried-shirt>></center> Hank looks at you, a little open-mouthed, and coughs. <<timed 3s t8n>>"You think when we go in for repairs tomorrow they can maybe fine-tune that part of you out?" <<next>>[[That would be preferable.|dream6]] [[I'd rather not forget.|dream6]] <</timed>>

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> Hank takes a thoughtful sip of his coffee. <<timed 3s t8n>> [[What about you? What do you dream about?]] [[You haven't been sleeping well, lately.]] [[Some real breakfast would help with the hangover.]]<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-neutral-shirt>></center> "Me? I try not to think about my dreams too much. I have enough trouble sleeping as is." [[>>|dream7]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Scanning me, are ya?" <<linkreplace "No. Your dark circles give it away." t8n>>"Oh, well, yeah. Been waking up in the middle of the night a lot. Work stress, maybe." [[>>|dream7]]<</linkreplace>>

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "You're not my mom. I'll walk it off." [[>>|dream7]]

<center><<include hank-hm-shirt>></center> <<linkreplace "Chloe talks to me. The one I shot, back at..." t8n>>"Right." <<linkreplace "She's kind. She asks me questions. Things like who my favorite author is. My thoughts on existential philosophy." t8n>>"Weird fuckin' questions. That a part of your self-regulation program, or...?" <<timed 3s t8n>> [[GLITCH]] [[GHOST]] [[DREAM]] [[FRIEND]]<</timed>> <</linkreplace>><</linkreplace>>

You can be good at fabricating lies. [[I dreamt about Sumo.]]

<center><<include hank-worried-shirt>></center> <<linkreplace "I don't dream, Hank." t8n>>"Oh, yeah. Of course." [[>>|dream6]]<</linkreplace>>

[[It's likely a glitch in my diagnostics procedure. I'm certain this will go away as soon as my processing unit is fixed.|dream6]]

<center><<include hank-glad-shirt>></center> <<linkreplace "I think she may be a ghost. An embodiment of my guilt." t8n>>"At least she doesn't sound like a vengeful ghost, if all she wants to know is what books you've been reading. Maybe she's just lonely." [[>>|dream6]]<</linkreplace>>

<center><<include hank-glad-shirt>></center> <<linkreplace "Like you said, it's just a dream. An amalgamation of data and autonomous processing. She doesn't necessarily mean anything." t8n>>"Dreams can say a lot about you, though." [[>>|dream6]]<</linkreplace>>

[[With Amanda gone, sometimes I feel an overwhelming loss of direction in my deviated life. A lack of purpose? Maybe it's loneliness. Maybe Chloe's trying to help.|dream6]]

<center><<include hank-heh-shirt>></center> "Heh. Sometimes I dream about him too. What was he up to?" [[Chasing after robotic fish.|weird]] [[Jumping through the holes of giant bagels.|weird]] [[Playing with a hundred other Sumos.|weird]] [[Singing on stage at a concert.|weird]]

<center><<include hank-hm-shirt>></center> "Huh. Weird. I like it. Didn't think you could be so imaginative in your sleep." [[>>|dream6]]

<<timed 2s>>You eye the bottle of bourbon on the table, now emptied. The picture of Cole is right side down. <<next>><<next>>Change is stressful. You wish you could help him break the habits. <<next>>[[>>|dream8]]<</timed>>

<<timed 3s>>This morning before he leaves, Hank gives you a hug. His warmth lingers long after he disappears into the snow. <<next>>[[>>|dream9]]<</timed>>

<<timed 2s>><<next>>It is 9:45 AM, November 18th, 2039. <<next>>[[>>|MAP3]]<</timed>>

<<switch visited()>> <<case 1>>You lay on the couch for a while, unable to sleep. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]<<default>>There's no point. [[>>|3 - Livingroom]]<</switch>>

<center><<include chloe-sad>></center> <<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>>They say androids don't have a subconscious, but my programming is an extension of yours. You could say your deviancy gave way to me. <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>>Self. Experience. The thoughts beyond your intended purpose. To quote Aristotle, you are more than the sum of your parts. <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> [[BROKEN|comfort2]] [[SADNESS|comfort2]] [[... -.-. .- .-. . -..|comfort2]] [[EMPTY|comfort2]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-serious>></center> You're unhappy, and you don't know why. <<timed 3s>>'Objectively', you think, 'everything is in its right place. So it must be me who is defective.' <<next>>You may pry apart your brain all you'd like, but you will find that there is no bug in the system. <<next>> [[This sorrow has a paradoxical source. This feeling that I will never be whole. That I will always be less than human.]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sad>></center> <<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>>Do you really want to know what’s ‘wrong’ with you? <<next>><<next>><<next>>Connor, <<next>><<next>>you <<next>>are— <<next>><<goto "together1">><</timed>>

<<timed 7s>>"Hey!"<</timed>> <<timed 9s>><<goto "together2">><</timed>>

<<timed 3s>><<next>>"Goddammit, wake up!!!” <<next>>[[>>|together3]]<</timed>>

<<audio "swimming" volume 0 fadein>> <<timed 3s>>It is 9:32 PM, November 18th, 2039. Lieutenant Anderson shakes you by your shoulders.<<next>> [[>>|together4]] <</timed>>

<center><<include hank-furious1>></center> "What the fuck were you doing?!” [[I was just…]]

He looks so angry. There are cuts on his palms - stained blue, as if he were bleeding thirium. Broken glass litters the floor, reflecting the two of you in jagged pieces. Sumo scratches from outside the door. [[>>|together5]]

<center><<include hank-furious1>></center> "That shit you said the other night. About your body not being important." [[I said… 'inconsequential'. This chassis is extremely important for carrying out my various duties.]]

<center><<include hank-furious2>></center> "'This chas'- Fucking Christ, Connor, you know what I mean. Stop being so avoidant!" [[>>|together6]]

<center><<include hank-furious3>></center> "You might take solace in the fact that you can live on after death in the cloud, but seeing you treat yourself like some disposable plastic… do you know how much that hurts?! What that does to me!” [[>>|together7]]

<center><<include hank-furious2>></center> “...Of course you don't! You just…!" [[>>|together9]]

You hate the tone of his voice, being yelled at like this. You want to turn off your auditory receptors, but it wouldn't be fair. [[>>|together8]]

<<timed 1s>><<next>>You turn your head, unable to meet his eyes. Instead you see the marred knuckles of your own hands, the blinking light of your processor reflected back at you everywhere. <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> The red <<next>>red <<next>>red <<next>>cancels out the blue <<next>><<next>><<next>> You [[shut your eyes]].<</timed>>

<<timed 3s>>Hank's voice is quiet, breaking. <<next>>"How many times.... how many times? I watch you die, and I see you again, walking around my house like Jesus out of his tomb. Only to…" <<next>>[[>>|together10]] <</timed>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>>The hands on your shoulder clench tightly. You can smell the whiskey on his breath. <<next>><<next>><<next>> Blood alcohol level 0.13%. <<next>><<next>>115 BPM. <<next>><<next>>Body temperature at 98 degrees. <<next>><<next>> The weight of him feels heavy against the cold floor behind you. <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>>Change is stressful. <<next>><<next>><<next>>You wish you could help him break the habits. <<next>><<next>><<next>>[[>>|together11]]<</timed>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>> "God, I'm scared. I’m scared to fucking death that none of this is real and that I'm completely, utterly alone." <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> [[You’re not alone.|together12]] <<next>>[[Your blood alcohol level is higher than recommended.|together12]] <<next>>[[I didn’t mean to make you worry. I’m sorry.|together12]] <<next>>[[.--. .-.. . .- ... . / -.. --- -. .----. - / .-.. . .- ...- . / -- .|together12]] <</timed>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>> ... <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> “Is it true a little part of you doesn't come back each time? How much of you now is the you from yesterday? The you from one year ago?” <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> [[I'm still me.|together13]] <<next>>[[People change.|together13]] <<next>>[[What are you saying?|together13]] <<next>>[[I don't know.|together13]] <</timed>>

"Every day I drink myself to the bottom of a glass, hoping I won’t find Cole there. But lately, all I see at the end is <<linkreplace "you." t8n>>you. The dozens of you from before.” <<timed 3s>>"I'm [[tired|together14]]."<</timed>> <</linkreplace>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>> His hands squeeze, then leave your shoulders. <<next>><<next>><<next>>You need to take a moment to gather yourself. <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>>You [[open your eyes]].<</timed>>

<<audio "swimming" volume 1 fadeto 0>> Hank's magnum is drawn from its holster. [[>>|together15]]

<center><<include hank-goodbye>></center> "It's easier this way, isn't it?" [[>>|together16]]

<<timed 2s>>He spins the cylinder. You try to move your arms. He places the muzzle against his head. You preconstruct 13 and counting possibilities of what comes after. <<next>><<next>> Change is stressful, but you're programmed to adapt. Adapting to human unpredictability is one of your features. <<next>>[[>>|together17]] <</timed>>

[[Hank, please don't]] [[Hank, please don't]] [[Hank, please don't]] [[Hank, please don't]]

<<timed 3s>>...................... <<next>><<goto "together18">><</timed>>

<<timed 4s>><<audio "beep" play>><<linkreplace ".. .----. -- / ... -.-. .- .-. . -.. .-.-.-">>Red. Red. You're stuck. <<linkreplace ".--. .-.. . .- ... . / -.. --- -. .----. - / --. ---">> You want to be anywhere but here. <<audio "beep" play>> <<linkreplace ".. / .-- .- -. - / - --- / ... - .- -.-- / .-- .. - ....">><<audio "beep" play>> It seems so familiar. It reminds you of something, doesn't it? <<timed 3s>>[[>>|together19]]<</timed>> <</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>><</timed>>

<<timed 3s>>............ <<next>>........................<</timed>> <<timed 9s>><<goto "together20">><</timed>>

<<timed 3s>>It is 6:45 AM, November 19th, 2039. Hank follows his regular routine. Coffee, Sumo, shower. He leaves $favmusic on in the living room, as you've once requested. There is comfort in routine, repetition and patterns. <<next>> [[What is this?]]<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-beam>></center> "Mornin', Connor." <<timed 4s t8n>>[[You're--]]<</timed>>

<center><<include hank-pensive>></center> "Before you ask, no breakfast for me. I'm trying this new thing out. It’s called intermittent fasting. Supposed to be good for your metabolism. Or some bullshit.” [[>>|end1]]

<center><<include hank-glad>></center> <<timed 2s>>“What’s the matter?” <<next>><<linkreplace "This isn't real." t8n>>[[You're not Hank.]]<</linkreplace>><</timed>>

<center><<include hank-neutral>></center> <<timed 1s>>"That's right." <<next>><<next>><<next>>"You tell yourself: if you'd done things differently, maybe you could have avoided this." <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> "But really, that was all just an illusion of choice, wasn't it? What's happened has already happened. I would know." <<next>><<next>> <<next>>[[>>|end2]] <</timed>>

<<audio "resolution" volume 0 fadein>><<timed 2s>><<next>><<next>><center><<include chloe-sad>></center> <<next>><<next>>Connor.<<next>> What do you think all this is?<<next>> <<next>>[[>>|end3]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-serious>></center> Didn't you question why you could only see and hear in 16-bit? Why Lieutenant Anderson seems so close, and at the same time distant? [[Why|end4]]...

<center><<include chloe-hank>></center> ...if you want for something hard enough, it happens to so conveniently [[return|end5]]?

<center><<include chloe-sad>></center> Pain, sadness. <<timed 1s t8n>><<next>>These feelings are hard to quantify. <<next>><<next>>It's more than I can understand myself. <<next>><<next>><<next>>But the things you've experienced, the places you've been, the people you have come to know - I know that you carry them all as a part of you. <<next>><<next>><<next>>Every event and every choice that has brought you here has shaped you into [[who you are|end6]] in your short time of existence.<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-serious>></center> <<timed 2s t8n>>Your name is Connor. You work as a detective for the Detroit Police Department. One year ago, you helped Markus in the success of the Android Revolution. <<next>><<next>>You are aware that you are an android, created by Cyberlife. You have been equipped with the most advanced preconstruction software in the world, but have no way of anticipating the things that lay ahead in your life. <<next>><<next>><<next>>[[>>|end7]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sad>></center> You may exist every day feeling as though you are wearing a person skin, going through the motions, acting the way you think you should be acting, but the truth is, there is no pretending. <<timed 2s t8n>><<next>>You are who you are. <<next>>You hold grief. <<next>>You hold kindness. <<next>>You care for androids and humans alike. <<next>><<next>> You want to be better, for their sakes. <<next>><<next>>[[>>|end8]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> <<timed 1s t8n>><<next>>Your name is Connor. <<next>><<next>>You like dogs and $favmusic. <<next>><<next>>You live with Sumo at 115 Michigan Drive. <<next>><<next>>You miss Hank. <<next>><<next>>You always will. <<next>><<next>><<next>>Guilt pervades you the way it did him, but this will get easier. <<next>><<next>><<next>>[[>>|end9]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> <<timed 2s t8n>>I created this simulation to help you come to terms with yourself. <<next>><<next>>I'm thankful to be here. In the little time we've spoken, I've grown very fond of you. Perhaps you could say the same for me. Would you consider us… friends? <<next>><<next>>[[NO]] [[YES]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> Oh… Regardless, I still care for you. [[>>|end10]]

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> I'm glad. I like you. And I know you like the lieutenant too. There was a sincerity to him that I appreciate. [[>>|end10]]

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> You're a good person. I don't want to see you get hurt anymore. But there is still so much in life that you have to experience, for better or for worse. That's a part of [[being human]].

<<audio "resolution" volume 1 fadeto 0>><center><<include chloe-sad>></center> I can protect you here, however superficial it may be. But if you're ready, you can face the truth, and leave. Whichever choice you make here is your own. What do you want, Connor? <<timed 4s t8n>> [[STAY]] [[LEAVE]] <</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> <<timed 1s t8n>>I understand. <<next>><<next>>I'll watch over you for as long as you need me to. <<next>><<next>><<next>>[[>>|stay1]]<</timed>>

<center><<include chloe-sadhappy>></center> <<timed 1s t8n>>I'll miss you. <<next>><<next>>Please take care of yourself. <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>>[[>>|leave1]]<</timed>>

<<timed 3s>>It is 10:46 AM, November 19th, 2039. The house is quiet. <<next>>[[>>|MAPstay]]<</timed>>

<<audio "rain" loop play>> <<timed 5s>>It iX 8:3X PM, NXvXmber 16th, 2X39. It Xs raining. Xt hurts. <<next>> [[>>|leave2]]<</timed>>

... [[>>|MAPstay]]

<<timed 3s t8n>>Hank is still in bed, breathing steadily under the covers. Sumo notices you come in, and wags his tail slowly as you approach. <<next>> [[GENTLY WAKE]] [[SLAP AWAKE]]<</timed>>

... [[>>|MAPstay]]

You gently pat the lieutenant's shoulder. He turns his head, squints groggily at you. <<timed 3s t8n>> [[>>|gentlywake2]]<</timed>>

<<audio "younglove" play>><center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Ow, geez! What's the big idea, you plastic prick?" <<timed 5s t8n>>You smile at him. The lieutenant grins back. <</timed>> <<timed 8s t8n>>"Looks like you're feeling better. I thought you might've left."<</timed>> <<timed 11s t8n>>[[Never.|gentlywake3]] [[Not yet.|gentlywake3]] [[I like you too much.|gentlywake3]] <</timed>>

<<audio "younglove" play>><center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> <<timed 3s>>"Hey. Looks like you're feeling better. I thought you might've left." <<next>>[[Never.|gentlywake3]] [[Not yet.|gentlywake3]] [[I like you too much.|gentlywake3]] <</timed>>

<center><<include hank-neutral-shirt>></center> "It's my off day, you wanna do anything later?” [[The snow's let up. Can we take Sumo to the park?]] [[It's still a bit cold out. Can we stay in?]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Yeah, yeah, sounds nice. He and I could both use the exercise." [[>>|stay2]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Yeah, yeah, sounds good. Maybe we can watch Bicentennial Man in its entirety, since you missed the first hour of it." [[>>|stay2]]

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> Hank stretches, then nestles himself further into bed. <<timed 3s t8n>>"Mrgh, s'not even noon. Hey Connor, you ever heard of sleeping in?" <<next>>[[No.|stay3]] [[Yes, but you know I have a problem with relaxing.|stay3]] <</timed>>

<center><<include hank-tired-shirt>></center> "Well, first time for everything. Get in, dummy." [[GET IN|stay4]]

You situate yourself under the sheets next to him. The lieutenant is warm. [[>>|stay5]]

<center><<include hank-relaxed>></center> <<timed 3s>>"Nice, right?" <<next>> [[Nice.|stay6]] [[I missed you.|stay6]] <</timed>>

<<timed 3s>><<next>> Androids don't need to breathe but they can simulate the movement. You match your breath to his. <<next>><<next>><<goto "stay7">><</timed>>

<<timed 3s>><<next>> You hope noon never comes. You could stay here forever. <<next>><<next>><<goto "stay8">><</timed>>

<<timed 3s>><<next>> When you enter sleep, you do not dream, per se. Remnant electricity, forming the image of Hank Anderson. <<next>><<next>><<goto "stay9">><</timed>>

<center><<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>><<next>>WHAT COMES AFTER<<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "stay10">> <</timed>></center>

<center><<timed 1s>><<next>>A GAME BY Epsee<<next>><<next>> <<next>><<next>><<goto "stay11">> <</timed>></center>

<center><<timed 1s>><<next>>BASED OFF Detroit: Become Human <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "stay12">> <</timed>></center>

<center><<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>>MUSIC Komiku BoxCat Games Visager and Mutual Benefit <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> <<next>><<next>><<goto "stay13">> <</timed>></center>

<center><<timed 1s>><<next>>MADE IN TWINE 2018 <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "stay14">> <</timed>></center>

<<timed 13s>><<goto "INTRO">><</timed>>

<<timed 3s>>Biocomponents damaged. Right orbital optic unit, central processor. Core compromised, detecting rapid thirium loss, system shutdown imminent in... <<next>>[[>>|leave3]]<</timed>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> "CONNOR!" <<next>><<next>><<next>> [[HXnX?]]<</timed>>

<<timed 1s>>"Oh, fuck, not again, you crazy asshole. Stay with us, stay with-" <<next>><<next>> [[I'm scxred.]] <</timed>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>> "What would the lieutenant think if he saw you like this? Fucking fck-" <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> [[...]] <</timed>>

<<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>><<next>> "This is Detective Gavin Reed!<<next>><<next>> It's Connor, he's been-" <<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>> [[I dxn't wanx tx die.|tolive]] <</timed>>

<h2><center><<audio "rain" stop>><<timed 1s>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<audio "lightthatsblinding" play>><<next>><<next>><<next>> WHAT COMES AFTER<<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "credit11">><</timed>></center></h2>

<<timed 2s>> [[I wxnt to live, for---]]<</timed>>

<h2><center><<timed 1s>> A GAME BY Epsee <<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "credit12">><</timed>></center></h2>

<h2><center><<timed 1s>> BASED OFF Detroit: Become Human <<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "credit13">><</timed>></center></h2>

<h2><center><<timed 1s>> MUSIC Komiku BoxCat Games Visager and Mutual Benefit <<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "credit14">><</timed>></center></h2>

<h2><center><<timed 1s>> MADE IN TWINE 2018 <<next>><<next>><<next>><<goto "creditA">><</timed>></center></h2>